I have a much deeper understanding of what it means to actively pastor or shepherd people, regardless of my job title. I’m thankful to now be carrying the weight of that conviction day in and day out. My heart for the 50-plus volunteers I work with has completely changed. Nine months ago, I simply worked alongside them. They did their thing. I did mine. We worked together well enough, but that was about all we did.
I did little to show them how valuable their ministry was.
I did little to show them how much I appreciated them.
I did little to train them or make sure their needs were being met.
I was failing to lead them in any substantial way. While I can’t honestly tell you that I’m a perfect leader today, I can tell you I love these people better than I used to.
I pray for them often.
I try on a regular basis to show them how much I appreciate their selflessness in ministry.
I shepherd them.
Again, not perfectly, but I’m learning. That simply would not be true but for the many ways in which the leadership of The Austin Stone has shepherded me over this last several months.
Experience Transformation
Now, perhaps you live even farther from Austin than I do. Or perhaps you simply can’t commit hours on end each week for nine months to develop in your ministry. I can appreciate that. These months have been undeniably difficult. My wife has sacrificed time with me, the band at the church where I lead gave up their weekly rehearsals for nine months as they landed on the same night as my class, the church sacrificed to help FUND my weekly travels … it’s required a lot from a lot of folks. So maybe the Worship Leader Development program isn’t right for you.
If that’s the case, I’d challenge you, wherever you are in your ministry, however many years of experience you may have under your belt, however “good” a worship leader you may already be … submit yourself to the idea that there are ways in which you may need to develop.
